DART CEO Amanda Wanke to Lead Metro Transit in Twin Cities
Amanda Wanke, Chief Executive Officer of the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART), will be leaving her position on May 9, 2026, to take on a leadership role with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities, Minnesota. The move will allow Wanke to return to her home state and be closer to family.
A Decade with DART
Wanke has been with DART for 10 years, beginning as Chief External Affairs Officer in 2015. She progressed to Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO in May 2020. After a brief period with New Flyer and MCI, a bus and coach manufacturer, in October 2022, she returned to DART as CEO the following year.
New Role at Metro Transit
At Metro Transit, one of the nation’s largest transit systems employing over 3,000 people, Wanke will serve as Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Operations Administration. Metro Transit operates an integrated network of buses, light rail and commuter rail serving the Minneapolis-St. Paul region. DART News
Accomplishments at DART
During her 2½-year tenure as CEO, Wanke spearheaded several initiatives to strengthen and modernize public transit in the Des Moines area. A key achievement was the adoption of the Reimagine DART system redesign in December 2025, following extensive public input. This redesign aims to reduce operating expenses and improve the agency’s financial standing. We Are Iowa
DART likewise secured a $20 million federal grant under Wanke’s leadership to construct a new operations and maintenance facility. We Are Iowa
Ridership and Economic Impact
Wanke consistently advocated for the vital role of public transit in the regional economy. Data indicates that 60% of DART riders rely on the bus to commute to perform. 61% of riders do not have access to a working vehicle, and an equal percentage lacks a valid driver’s license. Approximately 85% of riders have a household income of less than $50,000 annually. We Are Iowa
DART experienced a nearly 7% increase in ridership in fiscal year 2025, reaching over 3.75 million rides. Nine out of ten trips on DART are work-related or for essential needs like medical appointments and education. We Are Iowa
Reaction from DART Commission
Des Moines Mayor and DART Commission Chair Connie Boesen praised Wanke’s leadership, stating that she was the right person to lead DART during a crucial period for transit in the region. Boesen highlighted Wanke’s deep understanding of the organization, collaborative approach, and ability to build consensus around a shared vision. DART News
The DART Commission will discuss the process for selecting a new CEO in the coming weeks and plans to formally recognize Wanke at her final commission meeting on May 5, 2026. DART News